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Why do I need a switch?

I just watched a few videos about audiophile switches and I don’t understand the need. Cable comes into my home and goes to a modem and then a NetGear Nighthawk router. I can run a CAT6 to my system or use the wireless. If you don’t need more ports, why add something else in the signal path?  On one  of the videos the guy was even talking about stacking several switches with jumpers and it made the sound even better. He supposedly bought bunch’s of switches at all ranges and really liked a NETGEAR 8-Port Gigabit Ethernet Plus Switch (GS108Ev3) That costs $37 on Amaz.

Thanks in advance.

128x128curiousjim
curiousjim's avatar
curiousjim OP
4,767 posts
 

@pcrhkr

I’ve been using the for about a year and it works great!

NETGEAR Powerline adapter Kit, 2000 Mbps Wall-plug, 2 Gigabit Ethernet Ports with Passthrough + Extra Outlet (PLP2000-100PAS) https://a.co/d/0pfP5NU

One out goes to the integrated and the other goes to the server.

pedroeb
493 posts
 

I'm not overwhelmed by iFi. I prefer something more conventional like these:

AUDIOPHONICS PSU-HC Regulated Linear Power Supply 5V 5A 60VA

AUDIOPHONICS PSU-HC Linear Regulated Power Supply 12V 5A 100VA

curiousjim's avatar
curiousjim OP
4,767 posts
 

If I change the 9v PS’s,  I’m hoping to find one LPS, with two outlets. Use only one AC plug, less clutter.

curiousjim's avatar
curiousjim OP
4,767 posts
 

@erik_squires 

My DAC has a LPS built in and I bought Teddy Pardo for my streamer, but it’s got a special cord and it’s 5 volts and these little guys need 9.

Also that article is interesting. But I wonder which is better, the fiber or the capacitor route?

dfbrent
8 posts
 

If you have enough ports on your router, you don't need a switch.  Of course, listen and make sure you are enjoying your music.  FWIW, I have a switch between my router and my streaming device, but only because I needed extra ports in the room.

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